Towing Set Up (New to RVing)

[stevenehaines]

So I am new to RVing, not trailering as we boat quite often, and I'm interested in running some specifications by everyone before I go out and purchase a TT.

We have a 2010 Lexus GX460, V8, 4WD. The following calculation is what I've been doing to determine what size TT we can comfortable tow:

GVWR: 6,600#
Tow Capacity: 5,000# (bumper tow)
Tow Capacity: 6,500# (WDH)
Curb Weight: 5,305#
Cargo Estimated: 700# (4 adults, 1 child, no gear)
Resultant Hitch Weight (Max.): 595#

With these numbers in mind, I'm thinking the specifications on a TT that I would like to get would be:

Dry Weight: ~4,000#
GVWR: =<5,500#
Hitch Weight: 450-500# (I'll be mounting dual Honda 2000i generators up front)

I'm trying to keep the 11-15% in mind on hitch weight. I have to find a way to run generators as we'll be using the TT to tailgate in a parking lot that doesn't have hook ups and the generators will need to be "on-board", not mounted on the ground.

Any thoughts?

[Need-A-Vacation]

The biggest obstacle is the payload of the vehicle. Look in the drivers door jamb for a yellow payload sticker. Will state "Passengers and cargo not to exceed XXXXlbs". How much payload does your Lexus have?

You need to include an estimated 100lbs for the wdh. Also, manufactures list the "brochure dry" tongue weight without a battery or the propane tank(s). 2-20lb tanks and a battery adds about 120lbs, 2-30lb tanks and a battery is about 160lbs.

How much do the two generators weigh? You may need to mount them in the rear bumper.

[rbpru]

It all comes down to how often and where you wish to tow.

I have an F-150 4x4 with the E-boost engine and pull a 5000 lbs. dry weight TT. On the CAT scales I am at or near the max cargo limit depending on how much “gear” I take. I have towed in the Rockies, Ozarks and hills and valleys of southern Indiana and Kentucky. I also have towed on the flat lands of the Midwest and across North and South Dakota. In short I expect my TT and TV combo the go where I wish to go. I would think this is a very common combo.

All that said, I only spend 25 to 30 percent of my driving time towing, or about 3000 to 4000 miles annually. The rest of the time my TV is my day to day vehicle.

However, if you live and tow in the mountains often, haul lots of camping gear, tow a large portion of the time, are a boondocker or have other special requirements you may need a stronger TV. A bigger TV and a lighter TT is generally a good idea, but only you know what your goals are.

[stevenehaines]

So if I understand correctly, you are recommending a tow weight less than 70% of the manufacturers recommendation.

Is this due to actual weight or the cross-sectional area of the front of the TT?

Most of our trips will only be for a couple of days. Most of our towing will be in FL.

We're trying to find a TT that sleeps 6 but isn't a hybrid as we're trying to avoid the dampness we've experienced in pop ups.

[justafordguy]

I would stay as light as possible if you plan to tow it very far or in the mountains. IMO no more than 4500lbs loaded and no more than 450 hitch weight.